Every December, magazines come out with "Best Of" and "Top Ten" lists, Barbara Walters initiates a new group of Most Fascinating People, and the Kennedy Center honors a select group of individuals who have made "significant contributions to American culture through the performing arts."

President Barack Obama celebrated the lifetime of work that brought each honoree to the event. "Despite all their success, all their fame, they're remained true to themselves," he said. "Their triumphs have lifted our spirits and lifted our nation and left us a better and richer place. And for that we are grateful."

Herbie Hancock

An eclectic mix of media and pop culture personalities convened Sunday night to celebrate jazz pianist Herbie Hancock. Bill O'Reilly called Hancock a "remarkable American, remarkable artist," while Spoop Dogg took the stage to thank him for creating hip-hop.

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Carlos Santana

Harry Belafonte spoke about Carlos Santana's myriad contributions to the arts: "Even without the music, you Carlos, are an essential humanitarian…but with the music, well, you're a god. …Your music tells us to be happy...to move mountains. It tells us to love."

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Martina Arroyo

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor took the stage to honor opera singer Martina Arroyo: "Martina always had the raw talent – a soaring, lyrical, captivating voice that transports her listeners. … I'm convinced Martina's voice couldn't be that beautiful if it weren't connected to a heart that's beautiful. She is the most giving person."

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Billy Joel

Artists from several different genres came together to pay tribute to Billy Joel. "The hardworking folks he’s met and the music that he’s heard across our nation come through in every note and every lyric that he’s written," President Barack Obama said.